Xct Mu Bu Vb Pc 80Entering a Village at the Wrong Time
Pāli / Sanskrit:Vikālagāmappavisana
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The Sutta on Entering a Village at an Improper Time
Explanation of Vikālagāmappavisana
Background
This rule is found in the Pātimokkha, the code of discipline, in the Pācittiya section of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka. These are detailed regulations that help monks and nuns govern daily conduct, in order to maintain purity, discipline, and harmony in the Sangha. The rule on entering a village at an improper time reflects early Buddhism’s deep concern for social propriety and decorum, especially in the relationship between the Sangha and ordinary laypeople.
The historical setting of this rule relates to the need to protect the honor and safety of bhikkhus. During the Buddha’s lifetime, bhikkhus needed to go on alms-round or visit the community. However, entering a village at unsuitable hours, such as late at night or very early in the morning, could cause misunderstandings and affect the reputation of individual monastics and the Sangha as a whole.
Main Content
The Vikālagāmappavisana rule states that bhikkhus should not enter a village at improper times, vikāla, that is, at times when the presence of renunciants might cause or increase suspicion, uncertainty, or loss of trust among laypeople and the public. This includes late evening or early morning periods, when the activities of bhikkhus might be misunderstood or socially inappropriate.
Violation of this rule is classified as Pācittiya, an offense requiring confession before another bhikkhu, rather than as a more serious offense. This shows that the main purpose is not substantive moral fault, but prudence and social adaptation. Vinaya commentaries, Atthakathā, explain that this rule is intended to protect the honor of the Sangha, avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, and maintain respect from the lay community.
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